Written by Scooplet

Concept by Cheryl and Scooplet

Scarecrow and Mrs. King characters are the property of Shoot the Moon Productions and Warner Bros. Television. No copyright infringement intended. Not for commercial use. Sarah Stetson, Matt Granger, and the other characters not found in the television show are my creation, however, so please respect my right to claim ownership of them—I do not authorize permission to use them in stories not authored by me.

The Eyes of the Father

Chapter Fifteen

As Matt had expected, the day had dragged. He and Sarah had gone along with the age-old notion of staying apart until the ceremony. Sarah had explained that it was an ancient custom taken from the times of feuding warlords, when the bride and groom might not even meet for the first time until the actual marriage ceremony. Not every bride was visually appealing to her future husband. In order to prevent the groom from reneging on any arrangements, the groom was not allowed to see the bride until they met at the altar, and even then, she would be covered with a veil until the ceremony concluded and the couple was officially married.

Matt thought it was a silly custom, not in keeping with the Christian teachings of their church. "I've told you many times how beautiful you are. Inside and out. I still feel the same way."

But Pastor Carlson had prevailed upon Matt. Even Cheryl, an old friend of the Stetsons, fellow church member and their wedding organizer, had used her powers of persuasion. "Think of your mothers—the tradition is important to them. And it will make it all the more special when you first see Sarah walking down the aisle toward you."

"I won't be wearing a veil over my face, Matt. We got one that hangs down my back, over my hair."

That appealed to Matt, so he stopped arguing. Besides, the ceremony was scheduled for two o'clock. Early enough so he and Sarah could hopefully avoid icy roads out to the cabin later that night, but late enough that they could have dancing and an early dinner for the guests. He would not have to wait all day to see his bride.

But he did insist on his choice for the wedding "march," which would not be a march at all, in his mind. The piece he had chosen was lovely, like the woman he was marrying, and he wanted everyone to hear that music when they saw her stepping gracefully down the aisle.

That morning, after Brian, Josh, and Matt packed their suitcases in the car, Matt had excused himself to go back into the house.

"Sure, man. But you've already checked that tuxedo about a zillion times. That box Sarah gave you is in your athletic bag, along with the rings. The skis are in the car…"

"I'll just be a minute, Brian. I'm checking the apartment, not my stuff."

Matt walked around the townhouse one last time. He wanted it to be perfect when he brought Sarah home after the honeymoon. He ran the disposal one more time and checked the refrigerator. Enough food for the first day back, but nothing that could spoil. The card he had bought for Sarah, welcoming her to her new home, was on her bedside table next to her framed photo from their first date. He had taken his copy of the photo, which used to sit on his bedside table, and put it on his desk at work.

A thrill coursed through him. This is it. If I can just get through the next few hours until we're really married and the rings are on our fingers…

Once in the car, he found he was still nervous. He tried to make small talk to take his mind off of things. "You two don't mind going to the hotel tonight? You could have stayed at the townhouse."

"Nah. It's easier this way. Your folks have that minivan that seats eight. Besides, your sisters will be at the hotel, too. We plan to hit the bar, maybe the pool…"

"Emma is too young for the bar, Brian." Josh's tone was serious. "We talked about this."

Brian made a face at Josh, but Matt grinned. He liked the idea of Josh being "friends" with his little sister, despite their four-year age difference. He was what Brian and Lauren called a "stick in the mud" at times, but twenty year-old Emma, who was bubbly and full of energy, seemed strangely attracted to Josh now that they had spent more time together. Maybe like Mom was attracted to Dad. Or Sarah was to me, he thought ruefully. And maybe the perfect person to help settle her down a little.

"You're pretty quiet there, Matt. Second thoughts?" Brian, who was riding shotgun, raised his eyebrows at Matt playfully.

"Never. I'm just ticking off the time until the ceremony."

"Let's stop and get some burgers. Forget the sandwiches the ladies are having at the church. We need some man-food."

From the backseat, Josh spoke up again. "I'm game."

When both of the men in the front seats cast glances back at Josh, he grew a little defensive. "What? The girls will be busy, and I'm starved. That was a good breakfast, Matt, but I ran on your treadmill."

"There's a great burger place on the way. Sometimes I take Sarah there after our Saturday run."

The burger run helped tick off some time, but Matt was eager to be at the church, so they did not stay long. His father was getting something from the minivan when they pulled into the nearly empty parking lot, so transferring Brian and Josh's luggage was easy.

"Good timing, Dad. I hope everything else goes this smoothly." He looked up at the sky as he spoke. "The weather is perfect."

"Oh, better say a prayer, son. Your future wife is trying to calm your future mother-in-law. The flowers are delayed."

"I should go in there and offer to call the place."

"Forget it. They have it covered. That friend of yours, Cheryl, has already harassed the florist. They'll be here. But there may be a few guests arriving by the time they do."

Matt blew out his breath. "But Sarah is okay with it?"

"Yep. Everything else seems to be going okay. I need to get these bags inside for your sisters. There's some red-headed gal in there doing make up and who knows what else."

"Ah. That would be Nikki. Very red hair?"

"Yep. Watch out for her, son. She was joking with Sarah about trading places today."

"Oh, she's harmless."

"Uh huh." David stared at Matt over his glasses. "I know you. She probably embarrassed you with some flirty comment." He laughed and turned to go into the church.

Matt could not think of a rejoinder, so he turned back to the Charger and started gathering his tuxedo and the other things he would need to get dressed.

A half an hour later Matt was ready for the wedding. He had stowed the casual clothes he had worn to the church in the suitcase he and Sarah would share on their trip. He wandered around outside the building with Brian, Josh, and his grandfather, enjoying the fresh air. When Jamie and Jennifer showed up with the wedding photographer, Matt was grateful for the diversion. The man came recommended by not only Jamie and Jennifer, but by several friends from their photography club. He was all business as he began preparing his equipment. He would take photos of the male members of the wedding party and some of the friends and relatives before the wedding ceremony, then the rest of the photos afterwards.

In the bridal room, Amanda was pinning the flowered lace veil over the loose curls Vikki had styled for Sarah. Trying to ward off a severe case of nerves, Sarah concentrated on the others in the room. She looked in the mirror at her mother.

"Mom, that dress really does look nice on you. I've always loved it when you wore that shade of blue." Sarah admired the long-sleeved silk dress. It had an open neckline with a collar that gave it a bit of a retro look. She had persuaded her mother to purchase it, thinking it gave her an air of elegance. Her father liked it, too. She smiled to herself when she remembered his long, low wolf whistle as Amanda had stepped out of their bedroom that morning.

"Thank you." Amanda chuckled as she regarded her daughter. "You know, I remember you used to lie on the floor of our bedroom when you were little, watching me do my hair before embassy functions and that sort of thing. You were just a little girl, but you loved watching me get dressed for those formal events."

Sarah laughed in return. "I did love it. Now you're dressing me up."

The veil in place, she turned to watch Vikki make the final touches to Lauren's hair. "I hope you don't mind wearing blue. You can blame your brother. He loves blue, so…"

"It's very nice for a bridesmaid's dress. I actually plan to wear it again. Brian has invited me to some anniversary party for his aunt and uncle next month. It's black tie." Lauren glanced down at the ice blue dress with the watered silk bodice and chiffon skirt. "I never would have thought of this color, but Em and I look pretty good in it."

Jessica, the flower girl, was sitting as quietly as she could, trying not to mess her hair or dress. She had a younger version of the bridesmaid dresses-hers had white lace and darker blue trim.

Just then Sharon Granger and her mother, Florence, came into the room with the florist. Sharon took in Lauren and Emily's hair and dresses, then Jessica's. "Oh my. You girls are just lovely." She walked over to Sarah and offered a smile of approval. "And Sarah, you are a vision. I'm so glad you decided to wear the veil like that." She went to the window and peeked out. "The men are posing for photos outside. If you look out the window, you should be able to see them. We made sure they had their boutonnieres for the photos."

While the florist organized the women's flowers, Sarah went to the window and watched as Matt posed with Brian and Josh, then his dad and grandfather. Her own father and her brothers also joined in some of the photos. She felt a hand on her arm.

"Sweetheart, you haven't eaten a thing since breakfast. Can I give you a few bites of sandwich?"

Turning to her mother, Sarah wanted to please her, but her stomach was in knots. She did not want to be ill if the food did not go down well. "I'll be okay, Mom. Those protein shakes keep me going a long time."

Florence did not beat around the bush. "Everyone gets a case of the nerves. Just focus on Matt when you walk down the aisle. I have it on good authority that he's more nervous than you, getting up in front of all of these people. You won't want to show him you're nervous, too." She patted Sarah's hand. "You look just lovely, dear."

Amanda handed her daughter a cup of water with a lid and a straw so she would not risk spilling on her gown or mussing her makeup. "At least drink this."

Sharon put her arm around Sarah's waist. "Would it be okay if I prayed, dear?"

Sarah leaned into the hug. "Oh, I'd love that. Thanks."

The men's photo session over, the photographer ventured to the bride's room to take a few candid photos. The men, no longer occupied, wandered toward the sanctuary, but Pastor Carlson stopped Matt, Brian, and Josh. "Let's go wait in my office. Cheryl will be glad to know we're all in one place."

Brian was quick to chime in. "Matt could use some prayer right now. He's a bundle of nerves."

Finally, at one fifty-five, Cheryl came to check on the men corralled by the pastor's office. "Wait here, then at two-o'clock, when the music starts for the mothers, walk through the door to your places, just like I showed you. And don't forget to close the door after you. Quietly." She offered them a smile, and then went off to help the rest of the wedding party.

Brian cracked the door and gave them updates. "There are a few stragglers still coming in. Looks like we'll need to give them a couple of minutes." He shut the door again. "Not bad, Matt. Your side of the church has just as many people as Sarah's side."

"You probably don't even know which side is which. And no one cares anymore." He ran a shaking hand over his hair.

Josh laughed a little at Matt's ribbing. "Take it easy, Matt. In a few minutes you'll be busy staring at your woman, and nothing else will matter."

Pastor Carlson put a calming hand on Matt's shoulder. "Even the most confident grooms get a little nervous about now. You'll be fine."

A few long minutes later the music, an instrumental version of one of Matt and Sarah's favorite hymns, started. Cheryl appeared at the end of the hallway to check on the men just as Pastor Carlson was leading Matt and his groomsmen into the sanctuary.

Despite the coolness of the day and Pastor Carlson's reassurances, Matt felt his palms sweating as he took his place at the front of the church. Not comfortable getting up in front of people, he was definitely in the spotlight until Sarah showed up. He had known when he and Sarah had begun planning this wedding that they would have perhaps one hundred guests—almost like a regular crowd for their church—but he had thought it might be easier because of the occasion. Now he found that he had to use his operative training in order to maintain a calm demeanor and smile pleasantly. He watched his mother, in a demure pale pink silk, then his grandmother, in a new teal green suit, as they were escorted to their seats. When Phillip brought Amanda to her seat, Matt caught her smile of reassurance and was able to smile back.

The pianist softly played the last few notes of the hymn, and now the sweet sounds of Debussy floated through the sanctuary. Matt smiled encouragingly as Emma, carrying her bouquet, walked slowly down the aisle. Matt felt another rush of nerves as Lauren came down the aisle, but she smiled and gave her brother a surreptitious thumbs up as she took her place on the steps nearby. Jessica was too busy carefully scattering rose petals to notice Matt smile at her.

Now the music swelled a little, and Matt watched as first Lee stepped into view, then Sarah. Matt thought that after the rehearsal, he would be prepared for the feelings that washed over him, but he was not. He could not take his eyes off of his bride. She wore her hair down with just a few strands at the sides of her face pinned back with the veil. Remembering his father's and grandfather's advice to get a good look at the gown, he took a moment to memorize its details. It was a soft white color; the fitted three quarter length sleeves and bodice were made of flowered French lace, and the skirt was of filmy chiffon that seemed to float around her. The neckline of the dress fell off of Sarah's shoulders and dipped just enough in front to accent the sapphire necklace. She truly was a lovely bride, and Matt could not help but feel a sense of pride in her.

But it was the expression on her face that struck him as Sarah, leaning a little into her father's arm, walked slowly down the aisle to the music. Her eyes were shining, focused only on him. Her air of confidence and her expression of love warmed his heart, and he found he was no longer nervous.

Then Lee and Sarah were standing in front of him and Pastor Carlson was asking, "Who gives this woman to this man in marriage?"

Lee's gravelly voice boomed through the sanctuary. "Her mother and I do." He bent to kiss Sarah on the cheek, winked at Matt, and went to his seat beside Amanda, taking Amanda's hand on his arm as he sat down.

Lauren stepped forward to take Sarah's bouquet of roses, and then Sarah tucked her hand into the crook of Matt's arm. They glanced at one another, smiling briefly, before they stepped up to face Pastor Carlson.

The pastor greeted the guests, and Matt felt Sarah lean lightly against him. They continued to steal glances at one another until the first hymn was sung. Then Matt found himself focusing on the ceremony, the Bible reading, and the pastor's message. He had almost forgotten the congregation of guests behind him. It was as if he and Sarah were standing alone before their trusted counselor. All too soon he was facing Sarah, holding her smaller hands in his as he said his vows to her. He felt his heart swell as he promised to love and to cherish her—he had heard others say similar words before, but now, at his own wedding, they were so much more meaningful. He would always love and cherish her, no matter what life brought them. God was there, so they would be a strand of three cords.

Sarah's eyes searched Matt's as she said her vows to him. He felt her grip his hands and heard the earnestness in her voice.

After they went to the altar and took communion together, Brian stepped forward with the rings, and soon they were reciting more vows to one another, each promising to allow their ring to be a lasting reminder of their love and commitment to one another.

Amanda had been dabbing her cheeks with a tissue throughout the ceremony, and now Matt saw his mother doing the same. He smiled down at Sarah, who seemed like she wanted her own tissue as tears glistened in her eyes.

Then Pastor Carlson was looking at both of them. "And now, by the power invested in me by the state of Virginia, I hereby pronounce you husband and wife." He turned to Matt. "You may kiss the bride."

Matt felt Sarah's hands rest lightly on his upper arms as he placed his hands on her waist and bent to kiss her. It was light and gentle, but he let his lips linger just long enough to savor the moment. Thinking about this kiss countless times over the last several weeks, Matt had been worried that it would be awkward in front of so many people, but he was surprised at how natural it felt.

Before Matt could focus on Sarah again, Pastor Carlson was announcing the couple. "Family and friends, I present to you Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Granger."

The guests were just a blur as Matt, beaming with joy, escorted an equally joyous Sarah down the aisle. Soon they were in the bride's room, alone for just a moment. Overwhelmed, Sarah could not think of anything to say as her eyes met Matt's.

"Oh, my beloved Mrs. Granger. You are gorgeous." He took her in his arms and held her close, kissing her more fervently than he had at the front of the church.

"You two need to get a room. Oh wait. You have a whole cabin."

Matt's eyes met Sarah's again as they ignored Lauren's teasing. Sarah stood on her tiptoes and whispered in Matt's ear, "You look very dashing yourself, my husband. And I loved the expression on your face when I came down the aisle. All of my nervousness went away because you looked so happy."

He answered her quietly. "I was nervous, too, in front of all of those people. Then when you leaned on my arm, I forgot about everyone else."

Jennifer's voice broke into their private conversation. "The photographer is ready for you and Pastor Carlson has the marriage certificate for you to sign. Let's try to make this quick—we don't want to keep people waiting at the reception. Cheryl has already gone on ahead."

The newlyweds signed the certificate, with Lauren and Brian as their witnesses. After the room had emptied of everyone except Matt, Sarah, and Pastor Carlson, he put his hands on their shoulders. "I could not say this in front of the crowd, but out of all the weddings I have officiated, this one brings me perhaps the most pleasure. I've really seen how the Lord has done a lot of work in your lives—brought a lot of healing and joy. God bless you both."

Still overwhelmed from the ceremony, Sarah could only smile and offer a quiet thank you, while Matt gave their pastor a quick hug around the shoulders and thanked him, too. Then it was just Matt and Sarah in the room.

Matt put his hand on the small of Sarah's back to guide her to the door, but she stopped him. "Wait. I need to do something before I forget." She pulled the engagement ring off of her right hand, where she had placed it before the ceremony, and slid it back onto her left hand so it could join the wedding ring Matt had slipped onto her finger only a few minutes before. She held her hand out so she could admire the set. "I love how the band fits with the ring your mom designed, Matt."

He took her hand so he could get a better look at the rings, but Jennifer was back, her eyebrows raised.

Matt glanced apologetically at his new sister-in-law. "Sorry. We're on our way." Finally, they went out to the sanctuary.

Sarah spoke quickly, before the others could hear her. "Thanks for putting up with all of this pomp and circumstance, Matt. I hope you aren't wishing we eloped."

He whispered back, "I'm so happy right now, I don't care. And I'm looking forward to sashaying with you around the dance floor."

The photographer did his job with the formal photos quickly. Soon Matt and Sarah, her hand resting on his arm, were making their grand entrance at the reception, held at a country club a few miles down the road. While the guests indulged in appetizers and champagne, Matt and Sarah mingled purposefully, determined to greet everyone before dinner was served. Sometimes Matt sensed Sarah's embarrassment—more than one of her parents' friends had commented on how much she had grown up and how young she was to be getting married. They were both relieved when Francine and Efraim Beaman treated them like colleagues. Gil Barclay and his wife Maureen were equally gracious.

Emily Farnsworth could barely contain her delight. "Oh, Sarah. What a pleasure it is to see you married to such a fine young man. You know, I thought I'd have to hit your father over the head before he would admit he loved your mother. Thankfully you have your mother's sense in that department." She smiled indulgently as Sarah blushed.

Turning to Matt, she placed a hand on his arm and leaned towards him conspiratorially. "I've been watching your progress, young man. You made quite a name for yourself before you even came to your current position. You'll be hearing from me if my team ever needs some assistance here in Washington."

It was Matt's turn to blush. "I'd be honored, Lady Farnsworth. But surely you are being overly kind."

"I try to be kind, but I never exaggerate. I've mentored many a young…" She looked around to be certain no one was listening to their conversation except perhaps her team leader and bodyguard, Tristan Bates, who hovered not far away. "…agent. I'd love to have a chance to work with you sometime. The Stetson family is very special to me."

When it was finally time to sit down, Sarah was weary. Matt leaned over to whisper in her ear. "Did you eat today?"

She glanced at him guiltily. "I had breakfast. Mom sat me down and made me a smoothie and gave me one of the muffins she baked for our little 'going away' bag."

"There were sandwiches at the church. Did you eat one?"

"No. I was too nervous. But I heard you had a burger." She grinned at him. "Being kind of casual, stopping for fast food on the way to church, eh Granger?"

"You know me. Always hungry." He smiled, but took her hand. "Please relax and take your time with the meal, sweetie. It's going to be a long evening and you already seem kind of tired." Just as he finished speaking, a server brought plates to the couple.

Knowing he was right and feeling badly that she had Matt worried about her within a few hours of saying, "I do," Sarah did her best to finish her dinner.

Three times during the meal, they heard spoons clattering against the water glasses, and Matt was only too happy to oblige his friends with a kiss for his new bride. After the third time, Sarah laughed. "For someone who was feeling shy in front of the crowd, you're not having any trouble with these kisses. Is it the champagne?"

"Well, I do enjoy kissing you, but I also don't want the guys in the bullpen to harass me any more than they will after they hear the first song."

"Oh, is that Rene starting up the spoon on the glass thing?"

"Either him or Johnson."

The D.J. arriving at his booth signaled the imminence of the first dance. But before they could begin the next phase of the reception, Brian stood up and led a toast.

"I wasn't sure what to expect when my best buddy told me he was bringing his future wife home for Thanksgiving. But as usual, Matt went above and beyond, finding himself the perfect match. I couldn't be happier for you, my friend. May the Lord bless you both with many happy years together…and lots of kids." At Brian's mischievous grin, there were answering snickers around the room. Sarah thought she heard Matt's friend Kate comment to her fiancé Micah a few tables away, but she could not make out the words.

After the champagne flutes stopped clinking, Lee stood up, turning to Matt. "When I first hired you, Matt, I never dreamed you would ask me for permission to date my daughter, let alone ask for her hand in marriage. But you've proven time and again that you are more than worthy of Sarah. Both Amanda and I are proud to have you as a member of our family. Here's to you, son, and to our daughter. May you have a long and happy marriage."

Once again the champagne glasses around the room touched, and David stood up for the last toast. He turned to Lee and Amanda. "To the Stetsons, for raising a lovely daughter, and to my son, for having the wherewithal to recognize the perfect partner in Sarah. And finally to Sarah, for having the grace to embrace our family as her own, warts and all. And I'm referring to myself when I say warts." After the chuckling ended, he continued, "Sharon and I both love you like a daughter, my dear. Welcome to our family."

When the toasting began, Sarah had gripped Matt's hand under the table, but by the end she was leaning against his shoulder, trying in vain to swipe away the tears on her face. She got up and hugged her father-in-law, then gratefully accepted a tissue from Sharon.

Matt had indeed chosen the song for the first dance. It was what his grandfather would call a little schmaltzy and it had a definite country twang to it. He knew he would be ribbed by the other agents and perhaps some of his other friends, but he decided that if he could face the Taliban on their own turf, he could face some teasing from the same people who had shown they would cover his back in a crisis.

As the first strains of Scotty McCreery's "I Love You This Big" sounded from the speakers, Matt rose from his seat and took Sarah's hand. He grinned as he took her in his arms on the dance floor. "I know it's sappy, but it's how I feel about you."

Sarah had heard the song before, but she listened more carefully to the lyrics this time.

"I'll love you to the moon and back

I'll love you all the time

Deeper than the ocean

And higher than the pines…"

Grinning back, she let him lead her about the floor. "It is sappy, but I love you for choosing it. I feel the same way." Partway through the song, the D.J. encouraged the other married couples to join Matt and Sarah.

"I love you this big

Eyes have never seen this big

No one's ever dreamed this big

And I'll spend the rest of my life

Explaining what words cannot describe but I'll try

I love you this big."

The floor cleared once the song was over. Now it was time for Lee's dance with Sarah. Lee's dimple was evident as he took his daughter's hand. As they danced, Michael Buble's cover of Frank Sinatra's "You Make Me Feel So Young" filled the room while a slide show of highlights of Sarah's childhood flashed on a screen behind the bridal party's table. After a minute or two, Matt led his mother out onto the floor as the slide show switched to photos from his childhood.

The slide show changed to photos of Sarah and Matt together as Sinatra's "The Way You Look Tonight" came through the speakers. Lee paired up with Amanda, David found Sharon, and Matt led Sarah around the floor before other couples joined them.

"Lovely, never, ever change.

Keep that breathless charm.

Won't you please arrange it?

'Cause I love you, just the way you look tonight."

More Sinatra music floated over the room, then the D.J. added in some more Buble and the occasional modern dance tune as Matt danced with Amanda and Sarah danced with David. Soon William, then Jamie, then Phillip were asking to dance with the bride as Matt danced with the women in his family.

Sarah had to admit she was ready to take a break when it was time to cut the cake. Her heels were not as high as some of those the guests wore, but her shoes were beginning to pinch a little. Except for dinner, she had not been off of her feet since she had put the shoes on hours earlier. She would be glad to sit down after she and Matt went through the ritual of feeding each other a bite of the cake. Rene was quick to tease when they each fit the bite of cake neatly into the other's mouth.

"Aw, Granger. You two are no fun."

Matt winked at his partner and surprised Sarah with a kiss on the mouth. He smiled at her, speaking in her ear as they went back to their table. "You taste good. Vanilla with raspberry."

Sarah colored a little, but she bantered back, "You might kiss me a little longer if I have a piece of the chocolate."

"Well, I hope you asked for some, then." His eyes were twinkling. This time Sarah did not color, but something about his expression made her feel a warmth inside that she had only felt a few times before. She looked down shyly.

He wanted to ask her what she was thinking, but their cake had arrived and his grandparents were saying their goodbyes. The Beamans had offered to take them back to their hotel, and weary now, they were ready to go.

After people finished their dessert, some of the other older guests took the opportunity during the break in the dancing to say their goodbyes. When the dancing resumed, Leatherneck and his date had stayed, along with Matt's and Sarah's parents, and the remaining guests were mostly friends of the bride and groom.

Sarah's feet had recovered, so Matt took her back out onto the dance floor, where they joined their friends from dance class. The music, primarily popular tunes from the radio mixed with the occasional oldie, soon had the other guests on the floor, too. Phillip dragged his brother from his seat at a table, while Amy coaxed Jennifer out to dance with her husband.

"I have two left feet, wormbrain, and you know it. I'll stomp all over Jennifer." Jamie was trying to stand his ground while playfully using an old taunting name from their childhood.

"It's okay, Jamie. No one is watching us dance. Let's have fun for Sarah's sake." At his wife imploring look, Jamie gave in, joining the crowd.

Lee sat at a table with Amanda, watching Leatherneck dance with his date, Callie. "The old coot's still got it in him." An Earth, Wind, and Fire song began playing, and no one left the dance floor. "Look at Sarah and Matt. I guess they have practiced quite a bit."

Amanda stood. "Come on, Scarecrow. We can dance to this one, too."

"You've got to be kidding me."

Amanda crossed her arms and tapped her foot. "It won't last forever."

Lee shook his head, but stood anyway. They joined their sons and daughters-in-law, with Lee taking some good-natured teasing from Leatherneck.

Dancing not far away, Matt bent his head to Sarah's ear. "Let's go tell the D.J. to play more of these older tunes. It's fun to see your parents out here."

She laughed. "Yes, and maybe your parents will join us, too." She glanced toward Sharon, who was sipping some coffee, with David standing behind her chair. "I think your dad is tapping his foot."

After dancing their way over to the D.J., who easily agreed to queue up some more seventies and eighties music, the couple went to persuade David and Sharon to join them on the dance floor.

Sharon stood up immediately. "I'll come out there and dance with both of you, even if your father won't come."

David huffed good-naturedly. "All right. I'm coming out there."

A few songs later, Matt spoke in Sarah's ear again. "Ryan Johnson and Manny Gonzales are dancing with each other as much as they dance with their dates."

Sarah watched them for a minute while Matt led her around the floor. She giggled at the two agents. "Next time they rib you, you have something to dish back at them." She pointed her chin towards David and Sharon. "Your parents really know how to dance."

Feeling the chuckle rumble through his chest more than she could hear it, Sarah strained to hear his words.

"I think that's how my dad fell for my mom. He said something about her legs, too."

She leaned back a little to look in his face. At Sarah's expression, Matt continued. "I'm laughing because that first night at dance class made me realize how much I wanted more than friendship with you. Your legs had me even before that."

Reddening a little, Sarah mustered the nerve to reply. "Well, like father, like son." She leaned against him as the next number quieted the room and brought the sound level down a notch.

She felt his lips brush through the hair at the side of her face. His voice was husky as he spoke in her ear again. "I'd like to go soon, before we get too tired." He pulled away so he could look in her face. The intensity in his expression spoke volumes, giving her that warm feeling once again. She lowered her eyes, shy once more.

Moving to her side now, Matt wrapped an arm around his bride and walked with her to the table while their parents had reclaimed their seats.

Matt brought Sarah to her mother. "It's going on nine o'clock and I think the bride is wiped out."

Amanda stood up quickly. "I was wondering how long you two would hang in there. It's been a long day." She held out her hand to Sarah. "You just need to throw the bouquet and we can go take care of your dress. Your things are already in the dressing room."

Matt leaned in to speak to Lee quietly. "You sure you don't want me to have the D.J. close it down?"

"Nah. Make your getaway. Why do you think Leatherneck stayed behind? Between him, Amanda, and your dad, we've got it covered." Glancing out at the dance floor, he laughed. "Actually, Amanda could probably handle it all on her own."

Recalling more than one occasion where Amanda had used her authority during his freshman training, Matt laughed along with Lee as they followed the women over to some tables closer to the dance floor.

Standing off to the side, Matt watched as Sarah threw the bouquet over her shoulder to the young women who gathered behind her. He expected Jessica to make a dive for it, but Lauren reached up easily and caught it.

Josh elbowed Brian good-naturedly and Emma squealed with enthusiasm. Matt wondered if Brian had been ring-shopping, but he had been tight-lipped that week. When Matt had asked his old friend about his intentions, Brian had merely said, "It's your week, Buddy. Let's talk about your sister and me some other time."

Now Ryan Johnson was calling out loudly, "Granger, get the garter from your wife."

Matt was quick to reply. "There isn't a garter." Both Sarah and Matt had agreed not to follow the old custom. Matt wondered if Sarah had guessed that he had not wanted his fellow operatives, possibly drunk, to be ogling his wife as she lifted her wedding dress for Matt to take the garter. And the crude comments at the Agency in the weeks following could be even worse. At any rate, she had agreed quite readily to eschew the tradition.

For the moment, they endured some good-natured boos and commentary from Johnson and Gonzales as they made their way out of the ballroom and to the dressing rooms nearby.

Matt was leaning up against the wall outside the women's dressing room, his tuxedo in a garment bag and his athletic bag on the floor when Sarah came out wearing jeans, snow boots, and a ski jacket. She smiled shyly at Matt. "Not your usual going away outfit, but we are traveling to the mountains."

Amanda took Matt's garment bag and hung it next to Sarah's dress. "I'll have Lee take these to the car after you leave." She turned to her daughter and wrapped her arms around her. "I love you, sweetheart." She offered her daughter a significant look. "Have a wonderful trip. Relax and enjoy yourselves."

Lee came into the hallway, followed by David and Sharon. "All set? Everyone is waiting to see you off."

David and Sharon said their goodbyes to Matt and Sarah. David took an extra moment with Sarah. "I meant what I said during that toast. I know you'll make my son very happy. Be sure to come visit us soon."

Sharon chimed in. "They're coming in June, David, for my parents' anniversary."

"That's right." He nodded and smiled.

As everyone started to move down the hall, Lee stopped Sarah, placing an arm about her shoulders. She responded by throwing herself against her father. "Thank you for everything."

Lee held his daughter tightly in his arms before pulling away. "You need to go with your husband before you really do turn into a pumpkin, Cinderella."

"Daddy, that's not how the story goes."

"I know that," Lee growled. "God, I must have read that one to you about a million times. That's how you got your nickname."

Undaunted by his grousing, Sarah stood on her tiptoes and kissed her father's cheek. "I love you, Daddy."

Lee's voice was gruff. "I love you, too, pumpkin."

Matt waited at the end of the hallway, his hand held out for Sarah's.

"Is that really how you got your nickname?"

"You heard that?"

"That voice could be heard through the walls of his office when he was section chief."

Sarah giggled. "He never used that voice on me when he was truly mad. Only when he was pretending."

Matt brought her hand up to his lips and gave it a quick kiss. "Let's go on our honeymoon, Mrs. Granger."

After running the gauntlet of rose petals tossed by their guests, Matt helped Sarah into the Charger and climbed in the driver's side. Someone had used shaving cream to decorate the car with hearts and slogans like "Just Married." Seeing Phillip and Emma's expressions, Matt had no trouble guessing who had been behind it. He was glad that Phillip had used the shaving cream instead of the more durable window paint. Lee had already given him a heads up that there was a bucket and some rags at the cabin if he needed them.

Lee placed an arm around his wife's waist as they watched the car's taillights disappear. Since it was still relatively early in their minds, the other guests had gone back to the ballroom for some more dancing.

"You okay?" Amanda turned her head to peer into her husband's face. She could just make it out in the dim light near the curb.

"Oh, sure. We said our goodbyes inside. They'll only be gone a week and then they're a short drive from the house."

"For someone who was moping about and having fits for the last several weeks, you're awfully cavalier."

"Hey, I've been a lot better since Sarah and I worked things out."

Amanda ran a hand over Lee's back. "Yeah, you have." She grew quiet, and despite the cold, did not move to go inside.

"I guess I should be asking you if you're okay." He turned her towards him, so they faced one another, and tipped her chin with his finger. The light from the club's entry lit Amanda's face, showing tears on her cheeks. "Aww, Amanda." His expression was tender as he looked into her eyes. Placing a hand on either side of her face, he ran his thumbs over her cheeks to wipe away the tears before drawing her into an embrace.

Resting her face against his chest, her voice was muffled a little by his tuxedo jacket. "When we were in the dressing room, Sarah was nervous about…well, you know. About tonight. It really hit me that our daughter is a grown woman, starting a very new chapter in her life. I guess I'm just being sentimental."

"He'll be good to her. He's already proven that."

"I know." Amanda was fairly certain that Lee was referring not only to the first night of their honeymoon but to the rest of Sarah's and Matt's lives. After another minute or two, Amanda pulled away. Lee reached into his pocket for his handkerchief and handed it to her. She took it gratefully. "I'm sure I've smudged my makeup."

"Not really. Besides, the mother of the bride is supposed to look like she's been crying." He offered her a crooked smile, his dimples evident and his eyes twinkling.

Amanda laughed softly as she bent her head and refolded the handkerchief. "And the father of the bride is not supposed to look nearly so dashing."

The opening notes of a Frank Sinatra tune drifted out of the building as a few couples, club members who had eaten their Saturday night meal out together in the dining room, made their way through the entry doors.

Bending his head so he could speak into her ear, Lee whispered, "Come dance with me, beautiful."

"I'd love that." She took his hand, letting him lead her inside.

SMKSMKSMKSMKSMK

It did not take long before the Charger was on the highway leading to the cabin. Matt had been relieved when Lee and Amanda had offered it as their lodgings for the first night of their honeymoon. The drive to the airport would take less than an hour when it was time to leave for their noon flight, and they could have privacy their first night together.

Since it was still warm enough to avoid icing, they had stopped at a self-service car wash before leaving the city so Matt could hose off the Charger. After a few minutes they were back on the road.

He turned to Sarah briefly, taking her hand when he heard her sigh. "You're quiet."

"I'm enjoying the peacefulness of the car. It's just you and me, and a quiet country highway in the dark."

He pulled her hand to his lips, and then rested their clasped hands on his knee. "It is pretty nice. Close your eyes if you want. It's been a long day."

"Oh, I don't want to fall asleep on you. It's our honeymoon. And we haven't been to the cabin in the dark before."

"Well, if you do fall asleep, I'll wake you in time to give me a heads up on the turn." He glanced over at her again. Her eyes were turned to his, shining in the dim lights of the dashboard and the moonlight. He sighed a little, wishing they were already at the cabin. He remembered his father's advice. David had again drawn him aside for a brief talk the day before, reminding him of his words from their father-son talk at Thanksgiving. "Take it slow."

Matt concentrated on the road, eventually using both hands on the wheel as the country highway twisted and turned. He put a hand on Sarah's shoulder to wake her when he recognized the familiar landmarks near the cabin. Soon they were pulling up to the hidden getaway. A lone security light illuminated the gravel drive, revealing gray smudges of old snow around the edges of the cabin. Matt had known it would be a risk to plan a trip to any mountains, even the ones close to home, at this time of year, but thankfully they had good weather that night and more predicted for their travels tomorrow.

Moving slowly, Sarah yawned and stretched as Matt got out. The light by the door, tripped by his movement, now shone over the porch and steps. Matt placed the carry-on bags from the backseat of his car on the porch and quickly unlocked the door, reaching inside to punch the code on the alarm's keypad.

Before Sarah could open her car door, Matt had beaten her to it, offering his hand to help her. Once out of the car, she was barely standing before he lifted her into his arms and slammed the car door with his hip. Now she was wide awake. "Oh!" she cried.

He laughed at her surprise, his boots crunching heavily on the gravel as he took her to the porch steps.

Confused by his apparent gallantry, Sarah did not join in his amusement. "I can walk, you know."

"A proper groom carries the bride over the threshold. Just relax and enjoy it. I am." Obediently, she wrapped her arms around his neck. "That's better."

He grinned at her as he set her down inside the door and went out to bring in their suitcases and the carry-on luggage.

Sarah busied herself with turning up the heat and quickly inspecting the cabin. While her father kept it in good condition, with well-sealed windows and doors, she had never forgotten the time, many years ago, when mice had tried to invade their rustic home away from home. Turning on the lights in the bedroom she always used, she had cried out in surprise and disgust when two of the creatures had scampered away. While Lee had quickly taken care of the nuisance, Sarah had always been leery of finding more of the little rodents. After checking all of the rooms, Sarah breathed a sigh of relief. Thankfully there were no mice to bother them tonight.

Matt was waiting, looking like he felt a little out of place, in the living room. Sarah assumed that he needed help finding his bearings. She fought her feelings of shyness and tried to remain practical. It was time to brush her teeth and change into the lingerie she had planned for that night. Sarah gestured to the door near her. "Um, do you want to use this bathroom? I'll go use my parents' bathroom."

"Sounds good."

Standing in her bra and panties, Sarah studied herself in her parents' full length mirror. What would Matt see tonight? Her nervousness and lack of appetite had whittled away at her figure, making her rather thin, but she was far from emaciated. And having Matt and her mother prompting her to eat at the meals they had shared over the last few days, the angles that had formed recently were softening once again. She tried to convince herself not to worry about it. It's too late now, anyway. She reached into her traveling kit and pulled out her toothbrush and toothpaste.

Dressed in pajama bottoms and a t-shirt, Matt had just finished lighting the last of the candles in the living room. A soft, candlelit glow came from the bedroom nearby and there was a fire blazing in the fireplace.

"Oh, this is so nice."

Turning at the sound of his bride's voice, Matt found he had to remember to breathe. She was wearing a midnight blue satin and lace dressing gown, nothing at all like the thick robe he had seen her in at the safe house and again at his parents' home. He stepped over to her, letting his hands slip around her waist. There was not much on underneath the silky garment that accentuated her figure. "You are so lovely."

She ran her hands over his chest, eventually resting them on his shoulders. "And you are a very handsome man."

He bent his head to kiss her. It was a slow, gentle kiss that soon heated as his hands moved over her back, taking in the feel of her body, so lightly clothed, pressed up against his. They had not held one another like this before, but they had kissed like this once before. At his parents' home. He pulled away just far enough to see her face. "You remembered to bring the honeymoon kiss."

Looking into his darkening eyes, Sarah suddenly felt shy.

As if sensing her mood, Matt let go of her and took her hand, leading her to the couch. They sat down there, side by side, their clasped hands resting once again on Matt's knee. "Can I ask you something?"

Sarah's shyness turned into nervousness. Was he wondering why she was hesitating? She was dressed for the occasion, after all. Stop being a ninny. This is Matt. We've both been waiting for this. "Sure."

"I noticed you and your mom giving each other looks before we left. What was that about?"

He felt her hand tense a little as he held it, and she sat up straighter. "Oh, we had a little heart-to-heart in the dressing room. The same thing we talked about weeks ago."

Matt was quiet, wondering if Sarah would share more. When she remained silent, he ventured, "Are you nervous, too?"

Her laugh sounded more like a release of tension than anything else. "Yes." She paused, considering her words. "Mom said not to expect our first time to be like a scene from a romantic movie or novel. Just think about the fact that we're together, and that neither one of us has to put on the brakes or go home." Sarah kept some of the advice to herself. Her mother's words echoed in her head. "He's going to be as nervous as you are."

Matt realized that Amanda's words were not very different from what his father's had been. "Don't rush things, Matt. Women need more time, more loving, than men." Turning to Sarah, he placed his free hand on her cheek and leaned towards her. "I like the way your mom thinks."

When they kissed again, Sarah's hands came up to cup Matt's face and run through his hair. As they continued their kisses, somehow Sarah ended up in the corner of the couch, her back propped up against the cushion that rested against the arm of the sofa, and her legs draped over Matt's as he leaned over her. When he ran his hand along her bare thigh, a memory of the time last summer when he had touched her there flashed in her mind. She had been alarmed by her reaction then, grateful that the doorbell had rung, signaling the arrival of their Chinese food delivery.

This time, Matt did not pull his hand away, but rested it on her knee, looking into her eyes to gauge her reaction. Instead of urging him to slow down, as she had all those months ago, Sarah reached for the hem of Matt's shirt and began to pull it up. He helped her tug it over his head and then he tossed it onto a chair nearby. Now she was running her hands over the bare skin of his back, holding him as he resumed kissing and caressing her once more. The warm feelings of pleasure in her middle intensifying, she did not stop Matt when he untied the belt of her robe and parted it.

Letting his eyes drift slowly over her, Matt took in the pale blue satin camisole and panties Sarah wore under her dressing gown. The thin fabric did not hide much, but she felt unashamed when she saw the expression on his face. His voice husky now, he bent to kiss her neck and murmured in her ear. "So lovely. You are so beautiful." Slipping his hands under the fabric of her camisole, he caressed her smooth skin. "And so soft." His lips, kissing her jaw and neck at first, drifted down towards the camisole.

Sarah heard quiet moaning, and realized it was her. She tensed a little, wondering if Matt intended for their first time to be on the couch. She knew there might be an occasion when the family might gather here together, with her parents and her brothers and their wives sharing the couch and chairs. She could envision Matt sitting with her on the floor by the fireplace. She could not make love for the first time—or perhaps anytime—on this couch or in this room.

His hands had stopped and he had sat up a little, watching her face. He looked almost hurt. "What's wrong?"

"Oh, nothing's wrong." She ran her hands over his bare chest, watching her fingers sift through his light brown chest hair, trying to show him how much she desired him, too. "In fact, it's really nice. But…"

Matt pulled her up so they were sitting together. Her dressing gown was still open, but his hands were on her shoulders. "We should go in the bedroom. Is that it?"

Her nose wrinkling a little, she mustered the courage to say, "I feel funny going very far out here."

He smiled at her, reaching up to brush the hair away from her face. He let his fingers trail slowly down her cheek. "Of course. It wasn't my intention to do much more than kiss out here. I vowed to myself that I would take my time, not rushing you through this. I'm sorry."

"There's nothing to be sorry about. I don't feel rushed. I feel loved. I want you as much as you want me. We've waited a while for this."

Gently, he shifted her legs off of his lap and stood. Going to the fire, he turned off the gas and shut the flue. As the flames in the fireplace fluttered and died, he went to each of the candles and blew them out, seeming to take his time deliberately. Then he stepped over to Sarah and held out a hand to her. As she rose to her feet, he embraced her, kissing first her forehead, then her cheeks, then her lips. His touch was tender, but Sarah could sense the intense longing was still there. She let the dressing gown, now falling off of her shoulders, slip down her arms and onto the couch.

Then Matt lifted her into his arms and kissed Sarah again. The longing was definitely there. She sighed as he held her tightly against his bare chest, relishing the sensation of his warm, smooth skin against hers. She brought her hands up and ran them through his hair while his lips drifted across her jaw and to her ear.

He spoke softly. "Beloved." When he kissed her neck, she sighed again. "I love it when you sigh like that."

Sarah found herself relaxing, that warm, tingly feeling that had started in her middle spreading all the way to her toes and fingertips as Matt carried her to the bedroom. He hesitated at the threshold. Candles flickered on the bedside tables as air from the heating vents warmed the room. While Sarah had changed her clothes, Matt had turned down the bed. It looked inviting in the mellow candlelight.

Placing her arms about his neck, Sarah looked in her new husband's face, her eyes shining. "I love you, Mr. Granger."

That was all the encouragement Matt needed to continue over the threshold.